PET AlOx Film can be printed before lamination, but the converter must identify the printable face and protect the transparent barrier interface. A clear print result does not prove that ink, drying and adhesive conditions will preserve barrier.
An AlOx Film Supplier needs the grade, surface orientation, ink system, drying temperature and laminate structure. Cailong lists uncoated, top-coated and retort-coated PET AlOx series, so the same process cannot be assumed for every grade.
Identify Both Web Faces
Label the AlOx side and PET side before the roll reaches the press. Record which face receives ink and which contacts adhesive. Retain labelled samples from the start and end of the run.
Control Drying and Web Contact
Track oven temperature, dwell, tension and roller contact. Excess heat or mechanical stress may damage the thin oxide layer even when the printed surface appears normal.
Verify after Cure
Inspect appearance, ink adhesion, bond condition, OTR and WVTR after full adhesive cure and pouch forming. Send Cailong the process sequence, structure, test conditions and failed samples.